Hilio de Abreu from Lugar de Baixo to Newlands

Being of Portuguese origin and born in South Africa it’s rare to find a young man excelling in a sport other than football, Hilio Bernardino de Abreu has changed my perception on this thought.

Only 23 years of age this young man of Portuguese origin is taking the rugby and cricket world by storm. Hilio’s parents are originally from the Portuguese island of Madeira born in a village called Lugar de Baixo, Ponta do Sol.

It is rare to find an individual excelling in more than one sport and Hilio has dispelled this myth by racking up accolades and achievements in both rugby and cricket. He has represented Western Province for cricket at an early age and recently played in the 2016 National Club Championships for Cape Town Cricket Club. Hilio was part of the Hartley Cricket Club in England who won the Kent League back in 2012 whilst on gap year. He has represented his university namely The University of Cape Town in all forms of the game this year at the highest level.Hilio has an equally impressive rugby career playing at the highest level during his schooling years . He played for Cranbrook Rugby Club in England in 2012 and the following year piled his trade at Hamiltons Rugby Club in Cape Town. He represented UCT Ikeys this year at Varsity Cup Rugby and Varsity Cup 7’s. Hilio is a very versatile player and can alternate between flyhalf, scrumhalf or centre.Hilio has proven to have strong leadership skills as he has captained for both sports and was prefect at the prestigious Rondebosch Boy’s School in 2011. Hilio is currently studying at the University of Cape Town and is applying for a post grad for 2017.